Abstract
AIM:
To compare implant fixed complete dentures with implant overdentures relative to prosthodontic outcomes.
MATERIAL AND METHODS:
An
electronic Medline (PubMed) with MeSH terms, and Cochrane library
search was performed, focusing on studies that included implant fixed
complete dentures and implant overdentures in the same study, with the
results based on studies that included both types of prostheses.
RESULTS:
The
following six categories of comparative studies were identified in the
literature: 1) Implant and prosthesis survival; 2) Prosthesis
maintenance/complications; 3) Bone changes; 4) Patient satisfaction and
quality of life; 5) Cost-effectiveness; and 6) Masticatory performance.
It was determined that both the fixed and removable treatments were
associated with high implant survival rates. However, both types of
prostheses were impacted by the need for post-placement mechanical
maintenance or prosthetic complications. More maintenance/complications
occurred with implant overdentures than with fixed complete dentures.
Residual ridge resorption was greater with implant overdentures. Patient
satisfaction was high with each prosthesis, with three studies
revealing higher satisfaction with fixed complete dentures and five
studies finding no difference. All but one study on cost-effectiveness
indicated implant overdentures were more cost-effective. Based on two
studies, it appears the masticatory performance of implant fixed
complete dentures and implant overdentures is comparable.
CONCLUSIONS:
Multiple
factors must be considered when determining whether an implant-fixed
complete denture or implant overdentures are best suited for patients
with completely edentulous jaws. Conflict-of-interest statement: The
authors declare they have no conflicts of interest.
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